A dish cloth or sponge with a musty smell could mean health problems for your family

Have you ever picked up your dish cloth or sponge and
realized that it had an odd, musty smell? That smell may indicate that your
dish cloth or sponge is harboring illness causing bacteria or mold spores. Many
people just assume it is a normal smell. They do
not realize that they might be putting their family’s health at risk because of
using something that could be harboring dangerous microbes.

More and more people are using a dishwasher to clean their
dishes so that they do not have to worry about cleanliness. But for those who
do not have a dishwasher or do not want to use it, keeping dish cloths and
sponges clean should be a top priority. Consider using paper towels to clean up
kitchen surfaces. When done, throw away the towel. If you use cloth towels for
cleaning surfaces, wash them often in the hot cycle of your washing machine.

Each time you use your dish cloth or sponge you should rinse
it, wring it out thoroughly and let it dry completely. If you use a dish cloth,
you should launder it regularly and often. If you use a sponge, replace it
frequently and make sure you keep it clean in between replacements. A sponge
can be cleaned by wetting it thoroughly and putting it in the microwave for two
minutes. Make sure that you let the sponge cool before you remove it from a
microwave because it will be very hot! Never microwave a dry sponge as it could
catch fire. Another method for cleaning the sponge is to run it through a full
cycle in the dishwasher.

Most people do not get sick from washing dishes with sponges
or dish cloths that smell musty, but that does not mean that it cannot happen. Taking
the time to make sure that sponges and dish cloths, as well as other dish items
like bottle brushes are cleaned regularly and thoroughly are important steps
toward keeping your family healthy. For more ideas about keeping your food safe
and your family healthy go to Fight Bac.